The Best Place To Host A Wedding Reception Is...

"I have a cousin that is getting married this coming fall, and is looking for a cool, historic place in the city of Buffalo to have her wedding reception. Any recommendations? Her fiance is from San Diego and he has a lot of family coming in for the wedding. She really wants to show them the true, inner beauty of Buffalo. BRO viewers came to mind while we were doing our research. I would really appreciate any input they could give."
That's it. This sort of request has come in time after time - people looking for the best food, the best space, the best photo ops, the best grounds, etc. Make sure that you add what the size restrictions are and any other details that might help a bride and groom to make a decision. We're not even going to throw out any suggestions... just be creative yet practical when thinking of a few ideas.

As we mentioned in our previous post, we’re in the process of changing the Buffalo Rising site. We’re almost there as we expect to launch the new site on Friday, December 19th.
In the meantime, posting will be light as we log new stories in the new publishing system which will only be viewable when we launch on Friday.
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Caroline Kennedy was in town for a visit with our mayor yesterday. A possible choice to succeed US Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Kennedy's name has been mentioned along with that of Attorney General Andrew Cuomo (son of former New York Governor Mario Cuomo) and our own Byron Brown, among others.
Certainly, Kennedy has "been around politics" all of her life, which is to say she was born into a family of politicos and lived in the White House--neither of which would necessarily f …
Free light rail rides on downtown's above ground section could be derailed thanks to the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority's budget mess. That is the news coming out of a Buffalo Place meeting this morning. Facing a budget shortfall and reduced State operating assistance, the NFTA is scrambling for new revenue sources and is contemplating charging for rides along the lengthy downtown pedestrian mall.




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PaulBuffalo
Are there any Yelp users out there? Answers to this question would be a great to see there.
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ToddS
I recommend Harry's Harbour Place. Our reception was in September 2004. Honestly, everything was perfect. Food was great and so was the service. The folks there were easy to work with from beginning to end. We had almost 300 guests and it wasn't crowded. Our guests took advantage of being able to hang out on the patio. We came away with some great photographs on the patio when the sun set. Don't know if price is a concern, but we checked out a lot of places at that time and Harry's prices were very reasonable.
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Downtownjunkie
I recommend Duo. There beautiful patio and amazing decor are something guest will talk about for years. The atmosphere and service are impeccable. Ive been to a reception held there and it was beautifully done and everyone went home happy and with a more positive image of the city. I just thought Id mention them because I think most people would never group this cass establishment as a place to hold banquets but it is perfect,
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Downtownjunkie
I recommend Duo. There beautiful patio and amazing decor are something guest will talk about for years. The atmosphere and service are impeccable. Ive been to a reception held there and it was beautifully done and everyone went home happy and with a more positive image of the city. I just thought Id mention them because I think most people would never group this cass establishment as a place to hold banquets but it is perfect,
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Downtownjunkie
I recommend Duo. There beautiful patio and amazing decor are something guest will talk about for years. The atmosphere and service are impeccable. Ive been to a reception held there and it was beautifully done and everyone went home happy and with a more positive image of the city. I just thought Id mention them because I think most people would never group this cass establishment as a place to hold banquets but it is perfect,
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Downtownjunkie
Damn triple posts sorry
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bhorvath
Hamlin House would be affordable, but maybe not as 'historic' or nice as you're looking for.
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Buffalo21stcentury
The best place is relative isnt it. I mean it all depends on how much money one has to spend because one can always pick a place and then have it catered.
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PaulBuffalo
I've scheduled a few events at Harry's Harbour Grille when I've been in town and the service, food and overall experience were very good.
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nb3004
I'm getting married in April and we are having it at the Statler, in the Terrace Room (the one with windows) The Facade of the building needs updating but the interior is beautiful and the location is great for out of town guests exploring Buffalo.
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bufflow
Is this really a topic that has a place here? Come on.
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ArtGypsy
Shea's lobby. There's a Grand staircase and a Juliet balcony. They do a great job
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NorPark
Had mine at the Saturn Club 2 yrs ago, pretty outstanding. Mid August, so the weather was perfect for the outside, not to hot or cold. It was the best wedding reception I have ever attended, made a new years eve reception at the Buffalo Club pale in comparison. Going to one this July at The Church, pretty pumped for that.
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NorPark
Ceremony at the Delaware Park rose-gardens and the reception at the Delaware Park Casino is a sure winner as well, i have been to 2 great weddings their. Depends on the amount of people though, i think they max out around 125 or so, but dont hold me to that.
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gqcarrick
My Girlfriend's Friend had theirs at the Pearl Street Brewery, I guess they had it up where all the games were and they said it was very reasonable and the food was very good.
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NorPark
I guess we need more info. How important is the quality of food to the poor bastards, because 80% of receptions i have been to the food sucks. If you want a great meal, that rules out many options, and also will bring you up in cost. Are we dealing with some good old drinkers or a bunch of mormons? Do you want something indoors and outdoors, or does that matter? Approx how may people? 100, 200, 300+? Is money no object, or is it? The answers to these few questions will greatly help narrow down the choices.
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youknow
38th floor top of hsbc if it can still be rented ? awesome views ! who needs food ? just go top shelf liquor and have a killer band... the day fly's by !
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ruserious
Pearl Street Grill and Brewery. Best wedding ever been too. Amazing food, seriously wedding food doesn't normally taste that good, especially when there was 225 guests. Our banquet room had exposed brick arches, wood floors, exposed ceiling, views of downtown, patio off the back for those who... The bar and dance floor is sort of split from the seating area so it never got too loud for those who don't partake, but yet its not separated. Alos short walk to Adam's Mark or short free Metro train ride to Hyatt (important for out of town guests). Everything was flawless. And I know it wasn't that expensive compared to where they were looking out, and the all the character of the space plus the service and foold helped make the wedding so memorable.
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Sexy_Beast
Has anyone tried the FLW boathouse? For a smaller wedding I would think it would be perfect. Is it possible to have a reception at the HSBC Harbour Club in a historic district?
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Dangelo23
I recommend the Statler Towers also. It has it's own food service, historic charm, large spaces, and easy to find.
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al-alo
picking a place is tough. my wife and i were in the Statler's terrace rm. but i understand they now have an additional cost for the space. it was pretty good ~ the park lane people were b-/c+. the food was b (i think, it was a blur), and the room was an "a".
but is there a budget? priorities?
anyway, you might want to check out the Ellicott Sq blg - i went to a nice one there. the armory on Ct st might be an option, and ive been to 2 at Delaware pk which were pretty nice. the historical society or Botanical gardens are good options as well.
good luck. you can mail my surf and turn c/o BRO
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chaikac
Buffalo Botanical Gardens....that's where my wedding/reception is....you can bring in your own caterer too!
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elurbano
It all depends on what you are looking for. There are many great locations in Buffalo. We had our reception at the Central Terminal and would do it all over again! But it comes with some work, since you have to provide a caterer, and the set up/decorations....but it depends on how you look at that, b/c you get to do just about anything you want. We had around 200 people with no problem! you can probably fit 500! Everyone loved the location and thought it was the coolest thing. Many people would have never gone there if it wasn't for the wedding. Acoustics are interestingly great there for the size of the place. Also, when you start to compare prices of 'banquet' places and locations, it truly is a great deal, and it's going for a good cause, and helping to maintain an important part of Buffalo History.
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Rebecca
It really depends on size. Our wedding was about 80 guests and we had a hard time finding places that allowed parties smaller than 150.
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color
As an event planner I loved using the Beaver Hollow Conference Center in fall. It's a beautiful setting for for fall foliage. I think if your cousins check it out they will love it. A friend named Marc and Kathy work out there and will make your event very unique.
http://www.beaverhollow.com/Contact/index.php The Complete Wedding Package/The Setting
Nestled on 300 wooded acres with a spring-fed lake, we offer a breathtaking backdrop to your special Buffalo wedding ceremony, whether amidst our splendid butterfly garden or lakeside on our sandy beach.
Host a cocktail reception poolside with butler-passed hors d’oeuvres and private bar, enjoy your dinner reception on our lakeside Trailside Pavilion, or dine indoors in our cozy Hearthstone Lodge. In the evening, enjoy sitting by the bonfire underneath the star-filled sky. No other wedding location in Upstate New York can provide such a beautiful location inspired by an array of natural splendor. Buffalo Wedding: Weddings at Beaver Hollow are beautiful and unique, creating an ideal location to hold the wedding of your dreams. You will feel like you are having your wedding at your own private country estate. Java Center, NY—Predominantly known for providing first class service and facilities for corporate functions and retreats, Beaver Hollow Conference Center, located in Java Center, NY about 45 minutes outside of Buffalo, recently unveiled its new, all-inclusive destination wedding packages which cater to a variety of budgets.
The popularity of these packages has Beaver Hollow already booking weddings well into its 2010 season. Beaver Hollow’s unique setting, coupled with the fact that it only allows one wedding at a time on its property, affords bridal couples the ultimate in customization on their special day.
Beaver Hollow is nestled on 300 awe-inspiring wooded acres and is bejeweled with its own private lake. Its luxurious overnight accommodations are a delightful surprise for wedding guests looking to be pampered amidst this natural wonderland. Previous themed weddings have included everything from elegant lakeside feasts to casual Southern barbeques. Additionally, each guest room rate includes Beaver Hollow’s famous country breakfast buffet the next morning. This is a nice way for bridal couples to save money, while having one last event to look forward to with their cherished friends and family. Beaver Hollow Conference Center 1083 Pit Road Java Center, NY 14082 585-457-3700 Location From Buffalo, NY: Location: Take the I-190 South to the I-90 West. Exit the I-90 West at Exit 54 (NY-400 South). Take the 400 South towards East Aurora. You will be on the 400 South for approximately 12 miles when you will exit at the East Aurora Exit 20A/ Route 78 (NOT THE TRANSIT ROAD EXIT). Stay in the left lane when exiting at the East Aurora off ramp. Make a left onto Route 20A East. When you approach the blinking signal make a right onto Route 78 South. Take Route 78 South approximately 12 miles through Java Village. Turn Left onto Pit Road. There will be a Beaver Hollow sign. Approximate drive time from Downtown Buffalo is 40 minutes. Hope you like it!
Beautiful setting. Great food. Comfortable overnight guest rooms. Everything you need to have a wedding that everyone will be talking about is right here at Beaver Hollow, one of the best wedding locations in Upstate New York. Call us today at 800.964.7903 to schedule a tour or send a quick online request.
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color
As an event planner I loved using the Beaver Hollow Conference Center in fall. It's a beautiful setting for for fall foliage. I think if your cousins check it out they will love it. A friend named Marc and Kathy work out there and will make your event very unique.
http://www.beaverhollow.com/Contact/index.php The Complete Wedding Package/The Setting
Nestled on 300 wooded acres with a spring-fed lake, we offer a breathtaking backdrop to your special Buffalo wedding ceremony, whether amidst our splendid butterfly garden or lakeside on our sandy beach.
Host a cocktail reception poolside with butler-passed hors d’oeuvres and private bar, enjoy your dinner reception on our lakeside Trailside Pavilion, or dine indoors in our cozy Hearthstone Lodge. In the evening, enjoy sitting by the bonfire underneath the star-filled sky. No other wedding location in Upstate New York can provide such a beautiful location inspired by an array of natural splendor. Buffalo Wedding: Weddings at Beaver Hollow are beautiful and unique, creating an ideal location to hold the wedding of your dreams. You will feel like you are having your wedding at your own private country estate. Java Center, NY—Predominantly known for providing first class service and facilities for corporate functions and retreats, Beaver Hollow Conference Center, located in Java Center, NY about 45 minutes outside of Buffalo, recently unveiled its new, all-inclusive destination wedding packages which cater to a variety of budgets.
The popularity of these packages has Beaver Hollow already booking weddings well into its 2010 season. Beaver Hollow’s unique setting, coupled with the fact that it only allows one wedding at a time on its property, affords bridal couples the ultimate in customization on their special day.
Beaver Hollow is nestled on 300 awe-inspiring wooded acres and is bejeweled with its own private lake. Its luxurious overnight accommodations are a delightful surprise for wedding guests looking to be pampered amidst this natural wonderland. Previous themed weddings have included everything from elegant lakeside feasts to casual Southern barbeques. Additionally, each guest room rate includes Beaver Hollow’s famous country breakfast buffet the next morning. This is a nice way for bridal couples to save money, while having one last event to look forward to with their cherished friends and family. Beaver Hollow Conference Center 1083 Pit Road Java Center, NY 14082 585-457-3700 Location From Buffalo, NY: Location: Take the I-190 South to the I-90 West. Exit the I-90 West at Exit 54 (NY-400 South). Take the 400 South towards East Aurora. You will be on the 400 South for approximately 12 miles when you will exit at the East Aurora Exit 20A/ Route 78 (NOT THE TRANSIT ROAD EXIT). Stay in the left lane when exiting at the East Aurora off ramp. Make a left onto Route 20A East. When you approach the blinking signal make a right onto Route 78 South. Take Route 78 South approximately 12 miles through Java Village. Turn Left onto Pit Road. There will be a Beaver Hollow sign. Approximate drive time from Downtown Buffalo is 40 minutes. Hope you like it!
Beautiful setting. Great food. Comfortable overnight guest rooms. Everything you need to have a wedding that everyone will be talking about is right here at Beaver Hollow, one of the best wedding locations in Upstate New York. Call us today at 800.964.7903 to schedule a tour or send a quick online request.
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color
As an event planner my favorite fall venue for and event is the Beaver Hollow Conference Center, It is nestled in the fall foliage. It is just such a unique enviorment I think if your cousins check it out they will love it. A friend named Marc and Kathy work out there and will make your event very special.
http://www.beaverhollow.com/Contact/index.php The Complete Wedding Package/The Setting
Nestled on 300 wooded acres with a spring-fed lake, we offer a breathtaking backdrop to your special Buffalo wedding ceremony, whether amidst our splendid butterfly garden or lakeside on our sandy beach.
Host a cocktail reception poolside with butler-passed hors d’oeuvres and private bar, enjoy your dinner reception on our lakeside Trailside Pavilion, or dine indoors in our cozy Hearthstone Lodge. In the evening, enjoy sitting by the bonfire underneath the star-filled sky. No other wedding location in Upstate New York can provide such a beautiful location inspired by an array of natural splendor. Buffalo Wedding: Weddings at Beaver Hollow are beautiful and unique, creating an ideal location to hold the wedding of your dreams. You will feel like you are having your wedding at your own private country estate. Java Center, NY—Predominantly known for providing first class service and facilities for corporate functions and retreats, Beaver Hollow Conference Center, located in Java Center, NY about 45 minutes outside of Buffalo, recently unveiled its new, all-inclusive destination wedding packages which cater to a variety of budgets.
The popularity of these packages has Beaver Hollow already booking weddings well into its 2010 season. Beaver Hollow’s unique setting, coupled with the fact that it only allows one wedding at a time on its property, affords bridal couples the ultimate in customization on their special day.
Beaver Hollow is nestled on 300 awe-inspiring wooded acres and is bejeweled with its own private lake. Its luxurious overnight accommodations are a delightful surprise for wedding guests looking to be pampered amidst this natural wonderland. Previous themed weddings have included everything from elegant lakeside feasts to casual Southern barbeques. Additionally, each guest room rate includes Beaver Hollow’s famous country breakfast buffet the next morning. This is a nice way for bridal couples to save money, while having one last event to look forward to with their cherished friends and family. Beaver Hollow Conference Center 1083 Pit Road Java Center, NY 14082 585-457-3700 Location From Buffalo, NY: Location: Take the I-190 South to the I-90 West. Exit the I-90 West at Exit 54 (NY-400 South). Take the 400 South towards East Aurora. You will be on the 400 South for approximately 12 miles when you will exit at the East Aurora Exit 20A/ Route 78 (NOT THE TRANSIT ROAD EXIT). Stay in the left lane when exiting at the East Aurora off ramp. Make a left onto Route 20A East. When you approach the blinking signal make a right onto Route 78 South. Take Route 78 South approximately 12 miles through Java Village. Turn Left onto Pit Road. There will be a Beaver Hollow sign. Approximate drive time from Downtown Buffalo is 40 minutes. Hope you like it!
Beautiful setting. Great food. Comfortable overnight guest rooms. Everything you need to have a wedding that everyone will be talking about is right here at Beaver Hollow, one of the best wedding locations in Upstate New York. Call us today at 800.964.7903 to schedule a tour or send a quick online request.
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color
there is a problem BR with this link
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STEEL
For spectacular architecture both the Butler Mansion and The Historical Museum can be booked for weddings.
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hammerb44
It is so funny that this was posted because I am trying to come up with a cool space to have my wedding shower and am having a hard time thinking of something. I am looking for something kind of small and cozy with a cool atmosphere. Anyone have any suggestions? Even if they don't serve food themselves, I could get an outside caterer.
As for the person wanting ideas for a wedding reception, I have been to weddings at Harry's , Pearl Street, Delaware Park; all were great. Also, I've never been to one at the Historical Society, I've seen pictures of a wedding there and it looked beautiful. Also, my neighbor just got married at the Church/Babeville. That seems to be a great place too.
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color
there is a problem BR with this link it seems as if it is sticking and when you click the add your comment the writing stays there so you hit it again and it takes a few times before it moves therefore the triple texts..
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NorPark
Delaware Park seems like a unanimous place. The Historical Society was a place we looked at real hard, but they have no A/C, so in the summer it can be hot, and the amount of people you can fit is sort of minimal. If the weather is nice they will have the bar and stuff outside overlooking the lake and japanese garden, but if the weather sucks, well...
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al-alo
the Roycroft is a good option in E.A.
but you might want to check out Buffalo as an Architectural Museum (http://www.buffaloah.com/a/bamname.html)
sites with rentals are indicated in the table of contents.
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carlmalone
Color:
Shut the hell up, if I wanted a commercial I'd go the site. Put a cork in it would you. Please delete these blatant commercials. Mary Seton Room at K's.
Why not post it again
To me, Beaver Hollow is a wonderfully majestic getaway to hunt animals, including wedding guests.
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blackrocklifer
We looked at the Butler Mansion and The Mansion on Delaware. They were both quite impressive but also kind of cold and stiff. Rich Products Atrium is nice but needs a lot of people to fill it up. We found The Hamlin House with great food at a reasonable price. The old mansion and hall are true Buffalo, once grand with just enough wear and tear to feel at home. Our guests loved the food and the party continued into the bar when the reception ended. We walked to our room at The Mansion and would also reccomend this one of a kind wonderfull hotel.
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rydog71
Most great suggestions but how historical do you want to go? Central Terminal is certianly historical but not exactly elegant. The Mansion is historical but is also rather modern since it is a boutique hotel and if you end up in the basemanet it is no different than a Holiday Inn. Deleware Park casino is definitely a great place but there is some renovation work going on but if it is done by then its worth it. Butler mansion is great, no complaints there. Every event I've been to at the Knox has also been great.
I think the key is to think outside of the box if you really want something historical and unique. The Ellicott Square building is a registered landmark with a great lobby/atrium. Look into Graycliff, you might not have the inside but the grounds could be available. How cool would it be to have a huge tent in the middle of Deleware park all lit up for the special occasion. If he is from San Diego then the USS Little Rock would be great fit, I think it can accomadate 500 guests. Or if you want something truly Buffalo that is steeped in local history, but not glamorous, then Ulrichs would be a great fit.
Shop around and make some calls, you might be surprised where it can be done.
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distas
how bout pearl st?
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sbrof
21st century club... hands down
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NorPark
I heard they are building a new Wingate Inn on the waterfront, that will surely be a great venue.
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EricOak
1. The Mansion on Delaware....age and style, and there is no house like it in San Diego. It makes a strong impression and guests can stay at the hotel, which is the best in Buffalo right now.
2. Saturn Club can be good if you can get the courtyard or the Ladies Dining Room upstairs, a really fine old Buffalo room.
3. The Katherine Pratt House on Delaware (just down from Stillwater). It's a beautiful, period townhome that can accomodate a more intimate wedding (up to 100 or so). Again, it would make a strong impression on out-of-towners.
4.
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Sal
Connecticut Street Armory is less commercialized and cheap. You bring in your own caterer. It's very private with security and a great dance floor. There's even a smaller second floor room that's made available.
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LightoftheMoon
A big part of my husband's family is from Texas and we had an old Buffalo theme too--we had our ceremony at the Rose Garden in Delaware park & our reception at Asbury Hall (aka "The Church" or "Babeville"). It was 2 summers ago and people are still telling us how wonderful everything was. Numerous people said that it was the best wedding they've ever been to...from the live music set up on the big stage to the incredible food stations (they had Le Metro cater it, but I'm not sure if they're still the exclusive caterer) and of course the gorgeous surroundings. We had about 250 guests, and were told it could fit more than 300. Right in the heart of downtown, certainly a beautiful historical building, and we were able to take a nice little walk after the reception to the Delaware mansion to stay the night.
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dcoffee
As a Wedding Photographer, for the past 8 years I have a few suggestions, in no particular order.
Statler Towers, especially the Terrace room, Park Lane does great catering, Golden Ballroom is the best for a big party.
Delaware Park Casino, a little small, but a great place for a party.
Historical Society, absolutely beautiful location, great for pictures.
Pearl St Grill
Shanghai Reds, for the location.
Saturn Club and 21st Century club are also great, but you have to know a member. Saturn club has the best food, 21st century club is a great space.
Runners up: Kleinhans, you need a band for that huge stage, bathroom in the basement, but a cool location. Botanical gardens, new catering venue, a work in progress. Indoor ceremonies can be hot since you're in a greenhouse, also for small parties. Harry's Harbor Place, cool sunsets
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dcoffee
I forgot about Ashburry Hall Babeville, and the Mansion on Delaware, Never done a wedding at Babeville, but all the other events there have been great, nice big but comfortable venue. The Mansion is a bit small and quite expensive, but a beautiful setting.
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Bycz
I had mine at The Leaonard Post. The fish fry's were awesome!
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moxie429
I was just married this fall. Our ceremony was at the Karpeles Manuscript Museum on Porter ave. It was BEAUTIFUL. Just perfect. I could not have asked for a nicer, more unique place to be married in. To echo many of the above posters, our reception was at Harry's and they were fantastic. Our every request was accomodated and the food was out of this world. The setting was gorgeous with the sun setting along the river. Our pictures turned out so romantic. I will recommend to anyone getting married to try station style, it livens up the "party" and lets everyone mingle about, especially in older, historical or unique settings.
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